Welcome to Your Bourbon Journey! In Episode 79 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we are mixing up the Gala Manhattan—an exceptionally elegant, ultra-premium variation of the ultimate whiskey classic.

Most Manhattan recipes rely on standard orange modifiers, but tonight we are elevating the entire drink with Gran Gala Liqueur. Because Gran Gala features a rich, velvety brandy base instead of a neutral spirit, it introduces a weightier mouthfeel and a darker, more complex orange profile.

To ensure the whiskey remains the absolute star of the glass, we are anchoring this heavy-hitting build with Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon. At 116.8 proof, this legendary barrel-proof powerhouse brings a robust high-rye muscle, deep charred oak, and bold baking spices that slice right through the rich modifiers to command the glass. Paired with historic Cocchi di Torino Sweet Vermouth and a sophisticated split-bitter format, it yields a dry, luxurious cocktail that tastes like a premium dark chocolate-dipped orange peel.

Stir one up with us tonight, and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Please drink responsibly.

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🍊 The Gala Manhattan

Ingredients:

• 2.0 oz Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon
• 0.75 oz Cocchi di Torino Sweet Vermouth
• 0.50 oz Gran Gala Liqueur
• 2 dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters
• 2 dashes Aztec Chocolate Bitters
• Garnish: Expressed orange peel

Instructions:

1. Add the Wild Turkey Rare Breed, Cocchi di Torino, Gran Gala, and both styles of bitters into a mixing glass with plenty of ice.
2. Stir deeply for 25 to 30 seconds to achieve maximum chill and proper dilution.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Express a fresh orange peel over the top to release the citrus oils, drop it into the glass, and enjoy!

🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨

NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. 

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